Hinduism is the most popular religion in India, with 82% of the population practicing it. The next is most common religion is Islam. Hinduism is a way of life in India, forming part of everyday activities as well as festivals and ceremonies to mark special occasions. In a sense, Hinduism is more of a tradition than a religion because there is no unique philosophy at the basis of the people’s faith. It is practiced differently in different locations and has no clear founder and no ‘holy book’ to guide it. Hinduism allows worship of a wide range of gods and goddesses while belief in a ‘Supreme Spirit’ or the ‘indestructible soul’ is acceptable. Some people worship trees and animals while others have festivals for the sun, moon, planets, and rivers. About the only common feature is the use of pilgrimage sites and Brahman priests to perform birth, marriage and death ceremonies. Hindu festivals are rich in colour and tradition and therefore very popular.
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